Despite the
USA's unwavering support for
Israel, even in light of their actions in
Gaza, there are instances where their statements appear hypocritical. For instance, labeling the
deaths of Palestinians as inevitable casualties of war while denouncing the
killing of Ukrainian civilians lacks consistency. Throughout history, the
United States' stance towards those responsible has often raised questions about justice.
October 24, 2023 (about Gaza): White House Spokesperson
John Kirby acknowledges the harsh truth that civilian casualties and brutality are inevitable in times of
war, even if it is a difficult reality to accept.
On April 30, 2022, White House Spokesperson
John Kirby stated that the actions of the Russian army in
Ukraine are unjustifiable on ethical grounds. It is difficult to believe that anyone with
values of ethics and morality could justify such actions.
White House National Security Council Strategic Communications Coordinator,
John Kirby, shared contrasting perspectives on the two wars. While discussing one of the conflicts that led to loss of civilian lives in a statement on April 30, 2022, Kirby was visibly moved and acknowledged that "certain photographs were difficult to witness." However, when addressing the same issue on October 24, 2023, Kirby had a more solemn tone as he spoke candidly about how
civilian casualties are an unavoidable consequence of war.
The United States has been engaged in diplomacy since the
Cold War, with its stance on civilian casualties varying depending on the responsible party. With involvement in numerous conflicts dating back to the 1950s, the US has played a significant role in battles abroad. However, despite this, their approach to addressing
perpetrators' actions has not always been consistent.
So what is the true perspective of the US, as the focal point of these two stances, regarding
civilian deaths? This query can be answered by a White House Spokesperson or an American official. Let us examine a
historical event as an example until that day arrives.
On November 19, 2005, the Iraqi town of
Hadisa was the site of a tragic event known as the
Hadisa Massacre. This incident, in which US soldiers were responsible for the loss of civilian lives, was just one among many during the Iraq War. According to reports, 24 unarmed
Iraqi civilians were killed by US soldiers after being taken out of a vehicle. The soldiers then proceeded to enter the town and carry out a gruesome raid on homes where they
massacred innocent civilians, including women and children who were asleep in their beds.
Recently,
The Washington Post newspaper obtained a report from General
Eldon Bargewell detailing the Hadisa massacre. Shockingly, it reveals that illegal actions within the chain of command were disregarded.
The report also highlights the creation of a climate by
occupation commanders where the loss of innocent Iraqi lives is deemed insignificant in the midst of war. Due to this perception, it took several months for the truth about the
Hadisa massacre to come to light as the initial claims by the American army blamed insurgents for the deaths. However, it was ultimately uncovered that US soldiers were responsible for
deliberately killing a group of civilians.
Following the investigation, 8
US marines faced charges in connection with the
Hadisa Massacre. However, it was uncovered that certain individuals within their ranks had dishonestly provided false information and tampered with evidence in an attempt to cover up their actions. This revelation further intensified the already
widespread outrage and condemnation of
US war atrocities towards civilians, highlighting criticism towards the lack of accountability for soldiers involved in such crimes.
The ongoing inquiry into the
Hadisa Massacre has prompted a new report that seeks to provide updated suggestions for training American marines. Yet, representatives of the US military have declined to give any statements on the matter. One particular soldier,
Sergeant Sanick Dela Cruz, made headlines as one of eight soldiers whose charges were dismissed last week in connection with the
Hadisa Massacre. This turn of events, much like
White House Spokesperson Kirby's contrasting remarks concerning
Ukraine and Gaza, has raised doubts about the fairness of the American justice system.
